Rand-Walbundrie-Walla finish strongly to edge out Culcairn in Hume league

Howlong's Steve Jolliffe bursts clear of a pack. The Tigers notched up another comfortable victory.

Osborne's Matt Guttler dominated for the winners. The reigning premier has won four matches in a row.

TWO OF THE BEST: Azzi medallists Jamie Parr and Peter Hancock do battle at Howlong on Saturday. Pictures: MARK JESSER

RAND-Walbundrie-Walla climbed four rungs up the ladder after storming home to defeat fellow finals contender Culcairn by 11 points at Rand on Saturday.

Trailing by 10 points at the final change, Giants kicked 3.5 to 0.2 with the wind to put the disappointment of last weekend’s one-point loss to Jindera behind them.

Veteran Hayden Gleeson kicked a goal for Osborne after missing the start of the season.

It was a must-win game for the home team who were languishing in 11th spot before the match.

Coach Myles Aalbers, who was outstanding in kicking his team’s first four goals, said the Giants had tried to remain positive after narrow losses to Brock-Burrum and Jindera and a draw against Holbrook.

“Our form hadn’t been too bad, but we just couldn’t get over the line in a few tight ones,” Aalbers said.

“It’s such an even competition.

“I thought we defended really well against the wind and the boys still had plenty of run in their legs in the final quarter.

“Culcairn’s a good side so we’re rapt to get the win.

“We’re back in the mix going into the inter-league bye which is really pleasing.”